At an altitude of about 14,835 ft from sea level and 240 km from Leh, Tso Moriri Lake or tsomoriri lake is located in Changthang plateau of Ladakh in India, having a maximum length of 19km and a maximum width of 3km.
The lake is very deep with maximum depth at a point up to 350 ft (106m). Tsomoriri lake is said to be the largest of the high altitude lakes in India in the trans-Himalayan biogeographic region. Officially the lake is now known as Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve.
The bluish crystal clear water of Tsomoriri lake mesmerizes the visitors. Korzok village which inhabits a large number of people is situated by the bank of the lake. An Indian Army post is also situated by the bank of the lake and at the gateway to the village.
An entry with the military post is must before entering the village. Tso means lake in Tibetan language. So, many people call it Moriri lake. Tso Moriri Lake is mostly accessible only during summer months but the villagers and military stay here round the year.
The region had no telephone connectivity until recent when a small BSNL tower was established here. The village is given power supply during night time by a power generator maintained by Indian Army.
A large number of homestay units, hotels and camping sites have come up in the village in the recent past. Villagers cultivate peas, barley and potato by the bank of the lake. A 400-year-old Korzok Monastery is also worth visiting for tourists and pilgrims.
The lake is fed by the melting of snow and spring waters. The lake has no outlet, so it does not give birth to any water stream or river.
As Tsomoriri lake is a high altitude lake in Leh district of Ladakh, many tourists feel the impact of altitude sickness (mountain sickness) here. So, keeping in view the health, tourists are advised not to visit moriri lake directly from Manali side or from Leh. You need to stay in Leh for at least 2-3 days for better acclimatisation.
A large number of migratory birds, especially from Siberia, come to Tso Moriri Lake for breeding. The surface of Tsomoriri lake freezes completely during harsh winter months and villagers and their cattle walk on its frozen surface to cross the lake without any problem.
How To Reach Tso Moriri Lake
Most convenient way to reach Tso Moriri from Leh is via Chumathang and Mahe Bridge. If you are coming from Manali, you can choose the shortest road via Tsokar lake and Puga Hot Water Springs. The third road leading to Tso Moriri Lake starts from Pangong Lake via Man, Merak, Chushul, Rezang-la, Loma and Mahe Bridge.
Best Time To Visit Tso Moriri Lake
The best season to visit Tsomoriri is mid-May to September. You can visit the lake in October, late April or early May but morning, evening and night temperature will be too low during that time. The water starts freezing by end of September.
Hotels at Tso Moriri Lake
Korzok village, settled at the bank of Tso Moriri lake, has many homestay units being run by the local residents. Many locals and people from Leh establish seasonal tourist camps at different locals in and near the village. The village now has two hotels.
Inner Line Permit to Visit Tso Moriri Lake
You need to have an inner line permit to visit Tso Moriri Lake. If you are coming from Manali side via Tsokar and Puga, then you need to show the permit at the entry point to Korzok only. If you are coming from Leh via Mahe Bridge, then you need to show it at Mahe Bridge and Korzok. Remember if you are coming to Tsomoriri via Pangong, Man, Merak, Chushul, Tsaga La, you need to obtain a special permit to use this route as well. And you should have at least 6-7 copies of the permit which you need to submit at the traffic check posts established by Army and ITBP.
Tso Moriri Lake: A Gem of Tranquility in Ladakh
Location: Tso Moriri, also known as Lake Moriri or Mountain Lake, is a stunning high-altitude lake nestled in the remote Changthang region of Ladakh, India. Situated at an elevation of about 4,595 meters (15,075 feet) above sea level, TsoMoriri is one of the highest lakes in the world and remains a pristine jewel of tranquility amidst the mighty Himalayas.
Geography and Formation: This endorheic lake is surrounded by barren hills and snow-capped peaks, creating a surreal landscape that captivates every visitor. The lake spans approximately 28 kilometers in length and 4 to 8 kilometers in width, with a maximum depth of around 33 meters. Tso Moriri is a freshwater lake, fed by several mountain streams and melting snow from the nearby peaks.
Biodiversity: The Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, established to protect the fragile ecosystem of the region, is a testament to the rich biodiversity that thrives in this high-altitude environment. The lake serves as a breeding ground for numerous species of migratory birds, including the endangered Black-necked cranes. The wetlands around the lake also support a variety of flora, making it an ecologically significant area.
Flora and Fauna: The flora around Tso Moriri lake includes hardy grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs that have adapted to the harsh mountainous conditions. The lake is surrounded by vast stretches of barley fields cultivated by the local Changpa nomads.
The diverse fauna includes various species of birds, such as bar-headed geese, Brahminy ducks, and brown-headed gulls. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot mammals like marmots, Himalayan hares, and, occasionally, the elusive snow leopard in the surrounding hills.
Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary: Tso Moriri lake is located within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, an area known for its commitment to preserving the unique wildlife and landscapes of Ladakh. The sanctuary is home to several other high-altitude lakes, ensuring the conservation of this fragile ecosystem.
Cultural Significance: The nearby Korzok Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking Tso Moriri, adds a touch of spirituality to the landscape. The monastery, dating back to the 17th century, is an essential religious and cultural hub for the local Changpa community.
Accessibility: While the journey to Tsomoriri lake may be challenging due to the high-altitude terrain and the need to cross high mountain passes, the rewards are immeasurable. The journey itself takes visitors through dramatic landscapes, including the picturesque Taglang La pass (if coming via Pangong lake) and Namshang la or only Namshang la if coming from Leh via Chumathang and Mahe bridge or Pologongka pass if coming from Manali via Tsokar.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Tso Moriri lake is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is relatively milder, and the lake is accessible. Winter sees the region covered in snow, making travel difficult and restricting access to the lake.
Conclusion: Tso Moriri, with its ethereal beauty, diverse wildlife, and cultural richness, stands as a testament to the fragile yet resilient ecosystems that thrive in the high-altitude landscapes of Ladakh. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or someone seeking serenity in the lap of the Himalayas, Tso Moriri lake offers an unforgettable experience that lingers in the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness its grandeur.
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